BALLET is on a real high . . .

And at one local dancing school, it's also proving a passport to stardom.

In the last month, nine pupils from the Dorita School of Dancing - whose dance studio is at Breightmet Methodist Church - have been chosen to dance in the Fame Factory's professional pantomime at Bolton's Albert Halls from December to January.

At audition, they beat scores of other youngsters from all over the area to be among only 39 children needed for the panto.

But this latest coup is only one in a list of dancing successes which prove that this small group of youngsters, aged from five to 19, are certainly on their toes.

The school scored 100 per cent success in recent ballet and tap dancing exams. Two gained their membership of the British Ballet Organisation at the first attempt - now Leila Padidar, 16, and Lynsey Stott, 19, can each place the prestigious initials MBBO after their names.

Since Rita Seddon first opened this dancing school in 1978, though, she has had impressive young dancers.

One of her first pupils, John Partridge, now 25, is currently dancing in the London production of "Tommy." He was chosen at the age of 11 to train at the country's most famous ballet establishment, the Royal Ballet School.

At 16, John was selected by audition to dance in "Cats," in the touring group then in the London company, and has also danced for Wayne Sleep on the televised "Hot Shoe Show".

Now, as our pictures show, today's young dancers are working hard to follow in his illustrious footsteps.

And, as Rita points out: "What makes their results even more remarkable is the fact that they only have one lesson a week, each Saturday morning."

Then, Rita admits, she really puts them through their paces.

"Their strict classical ballet training bring out poise, stamina, agility and confidence," she added.

"In these days, it is a joy to see children enjoying the rigours of classical dance training. They come alive when they appear on stage, and show their sheer joy of dancing."

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